Apple might offer iPhone for Verizon

SAN FRANCISCO » The iPhone could be poised to shake up the cell phone industry a second time.

Apple, the maker of the popular smart phone, is conducting high-level discussions with Verizon Wireless to sell a version of the iPhone that would work on Verizon's network, according to a person briefed on the negotiations. The phone could be available as soon as next year.

The person, who requested anonymity because the deal isn't completed, said discussions between top company executives intensified two weeks ago.

At present the iPhone is available exclusively on AT&T's wireless network. That arrangement has lured millions of new customers to AT&T and lifted the company's revenue in a recession.

Verizon profit, revenue top forecasts

NEW YORK » Verizon Communications Inc. said yesterday its earnings grew 5 percent in the first quarter, boosted by its acquisition of Alltel Corp. and strong demand for its wireless, Internet and TV services.

Verizon, the second-largest U.S. telecommunications provider, earned $3.21 billion, or 58 cents a share, compared with $3.05 billion, or 57 cents a share, a year ago.

Excluding charges related to its acquisition of Alltel, Verizon earned 63 cents a share—4 cents higher than analysts polled by Thomson Reuters had expected.

Revenue rose almost 12 percent to $26.6 billion. That topped Wall Street's expectations of $26.3 billion in revenue.

Revenue from Verizon Wireless, which is a joint venture with Vodafone Group PLC of Britain, rose 30 percent to $15.1 billion.

Isle waste firm gets national award

Environmental Waste Management Systems Inc. won the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Blue Ribbon Small Business Award for a second consecutive year.

The company makes and markets waste-water treatment systems for areas where existing central sewage systems are not available or where septic tanks and cesspools are disallowed.

Harold Nagato, president and chief executive of the company, was surprised to receive the repeat recognition. “;We have all worked hard to make this business a success, and I am both proud and humbled by this award,”; he said in a statement.

Nagato and fellow 2009 Blue Ribbon recipients will be honored during a May 13 ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Atlantis offers free ride for kids

In celebration of May Day, children ride free on the Atlantis Submarine or on the sunset diner cruise offered by Atlantis Navatek Cruises.

The Keiki May Day special is good for any child under 12 from Friday through Sunday for submarine tours in Waikiki, Lahaina and Kona and for the dinner cruise that departs from Aloha Tower Marketplace on Oahu.

For more information, visit www.atlantissubmarines.com or call (800) 548-6262.